The Stolen Place

Christiania, a settlement that grew on a squatted Copenhagen military base, was established by hippies and anarchists in the '70s. The place instantly became a legend, drawing an eclectic range of visitors, from Bob Dylan to Björk, Patti Smith to The Rolling Stones. Young Christiania confronted the government but gained support from Danish society and managed to survive. However, decades of state pressure, the aging of core community members, and the invasion of criminal marijuana traffickers have brought tough challenges for Christiania, marginalising it in the eyes of Danish citizens. To get a job in the city, Christiania members don't tell their identity and residence. The uniqueness of the place attracts thousands of travelling tourists, pushing followers of Christiania's original culture to settle at a distance from curious eyes. Such hidden corners still attract those seeking alternative ways of life and those who haven't found themselves in general society.